The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State has formally welcomed Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate, into its fold. The move is seen as a significant milestone in the party’s coalition-building efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The event, held in Alimosho Local Government Area, was attended by party leaders, supporters, and stakeholders who hailed the move as a step towards unifying the opposition in Lagos and beyond. According to Lagos ADC Chairman, Mr. George Ashiru, Rhodes-Vivour’s entry into the party represents a growing political movement rather than an individual affiliation.

Ashiru emphasized that the party’s vision is to promote inclusivity and opportunities for all residents, aiming to build a “global Lagos” where citizens can find opportunities for themselves and their children. The ADC chairman also highlighted that the coalition-building process began two years ago and has been gaining momentum.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar sent a message of solidarity to the ADC, commending the party’s efforts in building a coalition. Through his representative, Professor Ola Olateju, Atiku described the ADC as a movement of the people, emphasizing that it is a platform where individuals can rise above ethnic, religious, or class barriers to achieve their goals.

The development is seen as a significant step in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in Lagos State, where opposition parties have been working to build alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC’s move to welcome Rhodes-Vivour is expected to strengthen the party’s position in the state and potentially impact the outcome of future elections. As political parties continue to navigate the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, the ADC’s coalition-building efforts are likely to be closely watched by stakeholders and observers alike.